On Wednesday, April 30, 2014, the Veterans Legal Assistance Project (VLAP) received a New York State Bar Association 2014 President’s Pro Bono Service Award at a Law Day luncheon at the State Bar Center in Albany. VLAP won the award in the Law School Group category.

“Pro bono service is one of the proudest traditions of the legal profession,” said State Bar President David M. Schraver. “Each year, attorneys give generously of themselves to change someone’s life for the better. We are pleased to recognize an outstanding group of recipients. They truly do the public good.”

Hofstra Law students and VLAP members Steven Lee 2L and Thomas Manzi 1L, along with alumna and VLAP co-founder Rosalyn Naval ’13, accepted the award on behalf of the organization. They were also accompanied by Franca Sachs ’06, the executive director of pro bono, externship and fellowship programs and an administrative supervisor for VLAP.

“Receiving this acknowledgment from the New York State Bar and our peers in the legal community is an awesome accomplishment for our group,” said Manzi. “As a veteran I know firsthand the sacrifices that these men and women have made in service to this country. It’s an honor to be able to give back.”

On Saturday, May 17, 2014, VLAP will be celebrating Armed Forces Day with a barbecue in Eisenhower Park at field 6A from noon-4 p.m. All proceeds from the event will help fund a full-time Veterans Assistance Clinic. More information can be found in the barbecue flyer.